home Consultations What disease develops with a lack of endocrine hormone. Symptoms that define diseases of the endocrine system

What disease develops with a lack of endocrine hormone. Symptoms that define diseases of the endocrine system

The endocrine system refers to a collection of endocrine glands that are responsible for the formation of hormones in the human body. In turn, hormones affect the state of cells and internal organs, thereby regulating their normal functioning. The endocrine system can be divided into 2 types, these are the glandular and diffuse systems. These are the 2 types endocrine system form the endocrine gland. In turn, after entering the blood, hormones penetrate into all organs.

There are also 2 types of endocrine glands - endocrine and mixed glands.

Endocrine glands include:

The pineal gland is part of the endocrine system. The pineal gland is located in the brain. Malfunction of the pineal gland leads to diabetes, depression and tumor formation;
nuclei of the brain - participate in the general control of the entire endocrine system. Malfunctions in the functioning of the brain nuclei can lead to disruptions in the integral functioning of the entire organism;
The pituitary gland is a brain appendage; its main function is to secrete a hormone that is responsible for human growth, as well as ensuring the full functioning of the nervous system. Disturbances in the functioning of the pituitary gland lead to obesity, exhaustion of the body, a slowdown in the growth process, and cessation of the development of the gonads;
thyroid gland. This gland is located in the neck. Hormones secreted by the thyroid gland are responsible for creating the body's immunity and affecting the nervous system. A small amount of hormones secreted by the thyroid gland leads to dysfunction digestive tract, dystrophy, excessive sweating, nervous and mental disorders;
adrenal gland - responsible for the production of adrenaline and norepinephrine. An increased concentration of hormones secreted by the adrenal glands leads to the formation malignant tumors and early puberty. Insufficient functioning of the adrenal gland leads to darkening and severe pigmentation of the skin, negatively affects the body's immune system and increases the amount of sugar in the blood.

Mixed glands include:

ovaries (cells of the female genital organs) and testes (cells of the male genital organs) - secrete hormones called estrogen, progesterone, testosterone;
pancreas - considered an organ digestive system and secretes a hormone that ensures the production of sugar and insulin;
paraganglia are remnants of the adrenaline system. Malfunctions of the paraganglia lead to the formation of tumors;
parathyroid gland. Hormone steam thyroid gland is directly related to the concentration of calcium in the body, which ensures the normal functioning of motor function;
thymus gland. The gland produces hormones responsible for the formation of new cells in the immune system. The lack of hormones produced by the thymus gland leads to a strong decrease in immunity and, accordingly, does not perform protective function the body from viruses and bacteria.

Functions of the endocrine system

The endocrine system plays a huge role in the human body. Its functions include:

ensuring the full functioning of all organs;
participation in all changes in the body;
regulation of body development;
security reproductive function body;
metabolic control;
responsible for emotional psychological condition person.

Therefore, any disease of the endocrine system leads to disruption of the integral functioning of the body. The main function of the glands located in the endocrine system is the release of hormones into the blood.

Disruption of work processes in the endocrine system

It is not uncommon for doctors to find it difficult to diagnose an endocrine system disorder, since the signs of this disease are easily confused with the symptoms of another disease. In fact, violations immediately affect the functioning of the entire body. Diseases of the endocrine system can be identified by numerous symptoms.

Endocrine system disorders are divided into 2 types - an excess of a function performed or an insufficiency of a function performed. That is, disturbances occur in the human body, such as when increased quantity hormones, and when low.

Symptoms of endocrine system dysfunction

Disruptions to the endocrine system immediately cause certain disruptions in the body. Symptoms of endocrine system disruption include:

increase or decrease in body weight. This disorder can be noticed when a person eats a properly balanced diet, but does not lose excess weight. It is possible to carry out the opposite process. Body weight decreases with a high-calorie diet;
increased sweating– a person begins to sweat heavily even when performing minor physical activity;
disruption of the heart - often the patient experiences rapid heartbeat and shortness of breath;
unrelated increase in body temperature - sharp increase body temperature without particularly visible reasons may indicate a hormonal imbalance in the body;
changes in the condition of the skin - increased body hair growth, excessive oily or dry skin, acne;
pressure surges - a sharp increase and decrease in pressure during the day, accompanied by a headache;
unbearable fatigue – even after a long rest a person does not feel in good shape;
in women, menstrual irregularities - delay, scanty discharge, excessive discharge, pain during menstruation - all this is the cause of hormonal imbalance in the body;
excessive growth of different parts of the body - disproportionately large limbs or other parts of the body indicate disturbances in the functioning of the endocrine system;
deterioration of vision - a sudden loss of vision occurs, in the absence of visible reasons;
a constant feeling of thirst - this symptom often accompanies all people with diseases of the endocrine system.
memory impairment - forgetfulness or the development of sclerosis indicates an imbalance in the human body;
digestive system disorders - occur even with a balanced diet.

Causes of endocrine system disorders and their classification

The exact causes of disruption of the endocrine system are not known, but presumably it can be concluded that malfunctions occur due to:

hereditary predisposition to diseases of the endocrine system;
drinking alcohol and smoking;
bad environment;
poor nutrition;
stress;
various injuries;
viruses and infections that have entered the body;
the presence of tumors in the body;
age-related changes;
big physical exercise.

Classification of diseases of the endocrine system

Endocrinological diseases are directly related to the production of hormones, the deficiency or increased concentration of which causes diseases. The main diseases of the endocrine system are:

– this disease is caused by dysfunction of the thyroid gland, which is not able to produce the required amount of insulin. A malfunction occurs in the human body, and it becomes unable to fully absorb fats, carbohydrates and glucose, thereby causing hyperglycemia;
- another thyroid disease, the symptoms of this disease are more often observed in women than in men. A lack of hormone produced by the thyroid gland causes a feeling of fatigue and weakness;
Goiter is a disease that involves an enlargement of the thyroid gland, several times larger than normal. main reason development of goiter, this is a small amount of iodine entering the human body;
– the disease manifests itself when there is excessive production of a hormone that controls the growth process of the body. In an adult, this disease manifests itself in the form of a disproportionate increase in different parts of the body;
- during illness the immune system releases antibodies that destroy the thyroid gland.
– the symptoms of this disease are convulsions that occur for no reason;
– the disease occurs when there is insufficient amount of the hormone – vasopressin, which regulates the amount of water in the human body. A symptom of this disease is a feeling of extreme thirst;
- arises in the process increased work adrenal glands Increased secretion of ardenocorticotropic hormone leads to obesity, changes in the skin, and excessive hair growth.

This is not the entire list of diseases associated with the endocrine system. The detection of even minor symptoms should be a reason to consult a doctor for advice.

Disruption of the endocrine system in children

Diseases of the endocrine system in children are no less common than in adults. Diagnosing and treating children with endocrine pathologies is not easy. The main reasons for the development of diseases in a child are heredity and external factors. Detection of endocrine system disease in a child late stages, may cause serious problems with health in the future. Endocrine pathology causes disturbances in the physical, psychological and sexual development of a child. Incorrect treatment or complete absence leads to changes in the functioning of the nervous system and the occurrence of incurable diseases.

To prevent endocrine diseases in children, it is worth implementing a number of preventive measures, such as:

proper nutrition;
limit the child from all kinds of stress;
get your child used to physical exercise.

Endocrine diseases that manifest themselves in children due to genetic prerequisites require constant monitoring by an endocrinologist, monthly examination and compliance with preventive measures. IN difficult cases Prevention of endocrine system diseases in children facilitates the development of the disease and prevents its complications.

Children are considered the main group at risk for endocrine system disorders, because even artificial feeding may later cause diabetes mellitus.

Symptoms that appear in children with pathologies

By observing your child, you can quickly notice disturbances in the functioning of the endocrine system; this may be indicated by the following facts:

drinking large amounts of liquid, more than 5 liters per day;
weight loss;
vomit;
lethargy and nervousness;
dry skin;
swelling;
by three months the child is not able to hold his head up on his own;
delayed puberty or premature puberty.

When you first notice the above symptoms, you should immediately consult a doctor.

Diseases of the endocrine system in women

According to statistics, women suffer from endocrine disorders more often than men. No treatment endocrine diseases can cause infertility, such as hormonal imbalances in female body primarily affects the ovaries. Endocrine disorders in women first lead to inflammatory processes occurring in the genital organs, and then lead to infertility. The reason for this can be not only improper production of hormones, but also constant stress, which has a detrimental effect on the body.

Diseases in women are much more difficult to treat than in men. The presence of endocrine system disorders and symptoms in women may not appear immediately. Even an ordinary menstrual delay may indicate existing problems with the endocrine system. When the endocrine system in women is disrupted, the pancreas and thyroid gland are also at risk. Problems with the endocrine system may be indicated by: rapid metabolism, tachycardia, poor circulation in the extremities, increased sweating, nervousness and insomnia. Other reasons for contacting an endocrinologist may include: obesity accompanied by rapid weight gain, increased hair growth throughout the body, sharp deterioration vision.

To prevent endocrine diseases, it is enough to adhere to proper nutrition and active lifestyle, avoid nervous breakdowns. Often, during examination, endocrine disease is detected after 50 years. This is due to age-related changes in the body and restructuring hormonal levels. In this case, the woman experiences discomfort from hot flashes, insomnia, pressure surges, and a nervous state.

During pregnancy, strong hormonal changes occur in a woman's body, which can lead to the threat of miscarriage, complications during childbirth, low lactation and depression. A completely uncompleted course of treatment is quite dangerous; it can lead to the development of asthma, infertility, diabetes mellitus and the formation of malignant tumors. Treatment of abnormalities in the endocrine system in women is mainly carried out hormonal drugs, which can be of natural origin or artificially created.

Diseases of the endocrine system in men

Hormonal disorders in men often manifest themselves either in adolescence or in old age. The cause of hormonal imbalance is an insufficient amount of testosterone in the body. An insufficient amount of the hormone in the blood may be due to congenital pathology, harmful effects on the body of alcohol, nicotine or drugs, development of infectious diseases in the body. The symptoms that appear in men during endocrine system disruption are similar to the general symptoms in women and children.

Diagnosis of disorders in the endocrine system

Only an endocrinologist can make a diagnosis. To identify pathologies of the endocrine system, the patient is prescribed tests to determine the amount of sugar in the body and the level of hormones in the blood, and a urine test. An ultrasound scan can also indicate the presence of an endocrine system disease. How additional view examinations may be prescribed CT scan and x-ray. Taking a test for the concentration of the hormone in the blood can show:

gland dysfunction;
causes of menstrual irregularities;
presence or absence of diabetes mellitus;
reason various diseases associated with disruptions in the endocrine system.

So that a hormone test shows correct result, before carrying out it, you should adhere to certain rules. A blood test for hormones is taken in the morning and on an empty stomach. A couple of days before the procedure, you should avoid physical activity, alcohol consumption and any medications.

Treatment of endocrine diseases

Treatment of endocrine diseases directly depends on the classification of the disease, its stage of development and the age of the patient. There are several known methods of treating diseases associated with disruption of the endocrine system:

drug treatment – implies taking: hormones, vitamins;
magnetotherapy – effects on the human body due to a magnetic field;
reception homeopathic medicines. Thanks to magnets, processes occur in human cells that have a positive effect on them;
physiotherapy. The use of physiotherapy as a treatment method is quite effective. It helps normalize metabolism, strengthen the body and speed up recovery;
surgical intervention is carried out only in the presence of malignant tumors;
endocrine and immune therapy– therapy is aimed at general strengthening body immunity.

Often, pathology of the endocrine system is detected at later stages of development, which complicates the treatment process . The main goal of treating diseases associated with the endocrine system is to normalize hormonal levels, completely eliminate the symptoms of the disease and prevent remission. Only a doctor can prescribe drug treatment for a disease. It directly depends on the form of the disease and its development.

Prevention of endocrine diseases

Diseases of the endocrine system can be prevented if preventive measures are taken. Prevention of endocrine diseases includes:

maintaining proper nutrition - eating cereals, fruits and vegetables. Eating should be frequent and in small quantities. You should avoid eating fatty and fried foods. Positive influence will provide exclusion of products with increased content Sahara;
active lifestyle - doing light physical exercise. Increased fatigue should be avoided;
getting rid of bad habits– giving up alcohol and smoking;
avoid harmful factors environment – long-term exposure to sunlight has a detrimental effect on the body;
visiting an endocrinologist - taking tests to determine hormonal levels;
prevention stressful situations– often stressful state gives serious hormonal disruptions;
the use of herbal medicine - the use of decoctions and tinctures from medicinal herbs and plants. It will be useful to use tinctures and decoctions of: sage, bloodroot, oregano;
maintaining adequate sleep.

Medications for the prevention of diseases of the endocrine system must contain iodine, vitamins and beneficial microelements.

Prevention of diseases of the endocrine system should be carried out regardless of hereditary predisposition, since disturbances in the formation of hormones can occur in any person. Early detection of endocrine system disorders will help avoid long treatment and prevents the development of dangerous diseases.

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Causes of diseases of the endocrine system.

Any disease of this system is based on one or more main reasons:

1) deficiency of one or another hormone;
2) excess of any hormone;
3) production of an abnormal (abnormal) hormone by the gland;
4) resistance to the action of the hormone;
5) disturbance of delivery, metabolism or rhythm of its secretion;
6) one-time violation of the series hormonal systems.

And why this happens in most cases is not always known. In other cases, this may happen for the following reasons.

The causes of hormone deficiency (congenital or acquired) are in most cases known. These include

infectious lesions endocrine glands ( low level cortisol in adrenal tuberculosis),
congenital underdevelopment (hypoplasia) of these glands (congenital hypothyroidism),
hemorrhages into the gland or insufficient blood supply (postpartum hypopituitarism),
inflammatory processes(diabetes mellitus due to pancreatitis),
autoimmune lesions (autoimmune thyroiditis resulting in hypothyroidism), tumors (pituitary adenomas),
insufficient intake of substances into the body necessary for the production of hormones (hypothyroidism due to iodine deficiency),
the influence of various toxic substances and radiation on the endocrine glands,
Iatrogenic causes (removal of the parathyroid glands in the treatment of Graves' disease).

The most common causes of excess hormone production are

excessive stimulation of the endocrine gland by factors of a physiological or pathological nature, resulting in increased hormone production (hypercortisolism in Itsenko-Cushing disease),
hormone production by tissues that normally do not produce them (Itsenko-Cushing syndrome),
increased formation of the hormone in peripheral tissues from precursors present in the blood (in case of liver damage, where androstenedione is destroyed, its excess amount enters adipose tissue and there it turns into estrogen),
Iatrogenic causes (in the treatment of any diseases with hormones).

The causes of disturbances in the transport and metabolism of hormones are most often the presence of liver pathology, but can also occur in certain physiological conditions, for example, during pregnancy.

The production of abnormal hormones is quite rare and may be caused by a single gene mutation (altered insulin molecule).

Resistance to hormones is often hereditary in origin, but most often occurs due to pathology of hormonal receptors, as a result of which the hormone does not enter the necessary tissues and cells and does not perform the corresponding function (hypothyroidism due to the formation of autoantibodies that block the thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor).

Multiple disorders of endocrine functions; it is known that hormones of many are involved in the regulation of physiological processes endocrine glands, and also that the endocrine glands themselves are the object hormonal influences Therefore, with any endocrine pathology, the activity of a number of other glands may change, and, accordingly, the level of other hormones changes. For example, panhypopituitarism (pathology of the pituitary gland), the function of the thyroid gland, adrenal glands and a number of other glands is disrupted.

Symptoms of endocrine diseases.

Complaints of patients suffering from endocrine diseases can be very diverse. These include, for example, weight loss or, conversely, weight gain, complaints of rapid heartbeat and interruptions in heart function, fever, feeling hot, increased sweating, increased excitability, diarrhea (with diffuse toxic goiter), headaches associated with increased blood pressure (with hypercortisolism, pheochromocytoma), severe weakness and muscle adynamia (with chronic adrenal insufficiency), decreased attention, drowsiness, memory impairment (with hypothyroidism), increased thirst (with diabetes mellitus), persistent increase in urination (with diabetes insipidus) and many others.

In a word, it is difficult to name organs and systems whose dysfunctions would not occur in diseases of the endocrine system. It is also very important here for a doctor to identify past diseases that can subsequently lead to diseases of the endocrine glands. For example, chronic adrenal insufficiency is often a consequence of tuberculosis. Hypothyroidism can develop after subtotal resection of the thyroid gland for diffuse toxic goiter. Acute inflammation thyroiditis (thyroiditis) can develop due to pneumonia, acute tonsillitis or sinusitis.

Finding out your family history is of great importance. Hereditary predisposition plays an important role in the occurrence of diseases such as diabetes mellitus, diffuse toxic goiter, obesity, diabetes insipidus, and autoimmune gland diseases.

In some cases, the patient's place of residence may affect health. So, to development endemic goiter leads to low iodine content in the environment.

Upon examination of the patient, various symptoms, allowing one to immediately suspect a particular disease. When the thyroid gland is damaged, changes in facial expression are detected: a frightened or angry look in combination with a number of ocular symptoms (increased eye shine, widened palpebral fissure, rare blinking, weakened convergence, hyperpigmentation of the skin of the eyelids) are typical for patients with diffuse toxic goiter, and mask-like and amicable face occurs in patients with hypothyroidism. An increase in the size of the nose, lips, and ears occurs with acromegaly. When examining the neck, you can identify changes in its configuration, which is characteristic of a pronounced enlargement of the thyroid gland.

Also, with some diseases there are some features of the physique of patients. Thus, with pituitary dwarfism, there is a very short stature(men below 130 cm, women below 120 cm) while maintaining the body proportions characteristic of childhood. With gigantism, on the contrary, there is very high growth - men are above 200 cm, women are above 190 cm.

Often, with endocrine pathology, the skin suffers. For example, hyperpigmentation of the skin and mucous membranes with increased deposition of melanin in the area of the palmar lines and nipple circumference is observed in chronic adrenal insufficiency. Wide red-violet striae on the abdomen and thighs are found in patients with Itsenko-Cushing syndrome. Pale and cold skin is characteristic of patients with hypothyroidism, hot and with high elasticity in diffuse toxic goiter. A tendency to pustular and fungal skin lesions occurs with diabetes mellitus. Dry skin, brittleness and hair loss occur with hypothyroidism.

In a number of diseases, changes in normal hair growth are also observed, for example, the female type is found in men with eunuchoidism, on the contrary male type in women it manifests itself in Itsenko-Cushing syndrome.

In some diseases, changes in the distribution of the subcutaneous fat layer are often detected. For example, with Itsenko-Cushing syndrome, there is excessive deposition of fat in the neck, torso, abdomen and face. Weight loss in patients is observed with hyperthyroidism, autoimmune thyroiditis, and diabetes mellitus. Weight gain occurs quickly with hypothyroidism.

The skeletal system also changes; there may be bone pain and pathological fractures with hyperparathyroidism.

Palpation is a valuable method to help diagnose thyroid diseases. Normally, it is usually not palpable. Percussion can reveal a substernal goiter. And upon auscultation of the thyroid gland - diffuse toxic goiter.

Laboratory and instrumental research methods for endocrine diseases.

Methods for determining hormones make it possible to determine the amount of a particular hormone, and based on this, draw appropriate conclusions, these include the radioimmunological method using radioactive material (tritium and iodine 125), non-isotopic methods - enzyme immunoassay, fluorescent immunoassay, enhanced luminescence method, electrochemical method immunoassay, immunoassay by particle counting method, determination of iodine content bound to serum proteins, determination of basal metabolic parameters.

A blood sugar test is used to determine diabetes mellitus.

Radioisotope research methods use iodine 131, and by the absorption of this iodine one or another pathology is determined. Scanning allows not only to determine the presence of nodes in the thyroid gland, but also to evaluate their activity. If a malignant lesion of the thyroid gland is suspected, scanning can be combined with thermography.

X-ray examination can detect a change in the shape of the sella turcica (with pituitary tumors), thickening of the bones of the cranial vault, hands and feet (with acromegaly), osteoporosis of the tubular bones and vertebrae (with hyperparathyroidism, Itsenko-Cushing syndrome).

Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging are also widely studied in the diagnosis of diseases of the endocrine glands.

Ultrasound examination is successfully used to identify nodular forms of goiter and thyroid cysts, and to diagnose diseases of the adrenal glands. Under the control of ultrasound examination, a puncture biopsy of the thyroid gland (its nodes) is also performed, followed by a histological examination of the obtained material.

Prevention of diseases of the endocrine glands.

Timely treatment of infectious and diseases of other nature, which in the future may have an impact negative impact on the endocrine system, reducing the impact of harmful environmental factors (various chemical compounds, radiation), balanced diet to prevent excess or deficiency of any substances that are necessary for the production of certain hormones.

Here it is also necessary to say about timely contacting a doctor (endocrinologist) when symptoms characteristic of diseases of the endocrine system appear, so as not to start the disease and “wait” for complications. If a disease occurs, strictly adhere to the doctor’s instructions in treatment for a speedy recovery or, if the disease is lifelong (diabetes mellitus), to improve the quality of life and prevent complications that may arise with this disease.

Diseases of the endocrine system, nutritional disorders and metabolic disorders:

Thyroid diseases
Diabetes
Other disorders of glucose regulation and pancreatic endocrine disorders Disorders of other endocrine glands
Malnutrition
Other types of malnutrition
Obesity and other types of overnutrition
Metabolic disorders

Few people know that the aging of the body begins with the endocrine system, or rather, with disturbances in its functioning.

Disruption of the endocrine system.

Endocrine system disorders are pathological conditions that occur as a result of improper activity of the endocrine glands or endocrine glands, which release the substances they produce (hormones) directly into the blood or lymph. Endocrine glands include:

- pituitary gland;

- thyroid and parathyroid glands;

- adrenal glands and glands with mixed function;

- gonads;

- pancreas.

The main role of the endocrine glands in the body is expressed in their influence on the processes of metabolism, growth, physical and sexual development. Disruption of the endocrine system leads to various disorders of the body. Endocrine disorders are based on either an excessive increase or decrease in the functions of a particular gland.

Causes of endocrine system disorders .

Primary dysfunction of peripheral endocrine glands. Various pathological processes can develop in the gland itself and lead to disruption of the formation and secretion of the corresponding hormones.

Peripheral forms of endocrine disorders.

The causes of peripheral endocrine disorders may be disturbances in the binding of hormones to proteins at the stage of their transport to target cells, inactivation or destruction of a circulating hormone, disturbances in the reception of hormones and their metabolism, and disturbances in permissive mechanisms.

Infections occupy an important place among the causes of damage to peripheral endocrine glands. Some of them (for example, tuberculosis, syphilis) can be localized in various glands, causing their gradual destruction, in other cases there is a certain selectivity of damage (for example, meningococcal sepsis is often accompanied by hemorrhage in the adrenal glands, viral parotitis often causes orchitis and testicular atrophy, and orchitis may also occur with gonorrhea).

The cause of damage to the glands and disorders of hormone production are tumors that can develop in any gland. The nature of endocrine disorders depends on the nature of the tumor. If the tumor originates from secretory cells, excess amounts of hormones are usually produced and a picture of hyperfunction of the gland occurs.

If the tumor does not secrete the hormone, but only compresses and causes atrophy or destroys the tissue of the gland, its progressive hypofunction develops. Often tumors are metastatic in nature. In some cases, tumors of the endocrine glands produce hormones that are not characteristic of this gland; ectopic foci of hormone production are also possible in tumors of non-endocrine organs.

Endocrine system disorders may be caused by birth defects development of glands or their atrophy. The latter is called for various reasons, namely:

— sclerotic process;

— chronic inflammation;

— age-related involution;

- hormonally active tumor of the paired gland;

— long-term treatment;

- exogenous hormones.

Damage and atrophy of the gland are sometimes caused by autoimmune processes (in some forms of diabetes mellitus, diseases of the adrenal glands, and thyroid gland).

The formation of hormones is disrupted due to hereditary defects in the enzymes necessary for their synthesis, or inactivation of enzymes. In this way, some forms of corticogenital syndrome, endemic cretinism and other endocrine diseases arise. It is also possible that abnormal forms of hormones are formed in the gland. Such hormones have inferior activity or are completely devoid of it. In some cases, the intraglandular conversion of prohormone into hormone is disrupted, and therefore inactive forms are released into the blood.

The cause of disturbances in the biosynthesis of hormones can be a deficiency of specific substrates included in their composition (for example, iodine, necessary for the formation of thyroid hormones).

One of the causes of endocrine disorders is the depletion of hormone biosynthesis as a result of prolonged stimulation of the gland and its hyperfunction. In this way, some forms of pancreatic islet beta cell failure occur, stimulated by prolonged hyperglycemia.

Increased attention is paid to antireceptor antibodies. It is believed that the mechanisms of production of antireceptor antibodies may be associated with certain features of the immune system itself.

Hormonal disorders.

The formation of antibodies may be caused by a viral infection; it is assumed that in such cases the virus binds to a hormonal receptor on the cell surface and provokes the formation of antireceptor antibodies. One form of insufficiency of hormonal effects may be associated with a violation of the permissive action of hormones.

The lack of cortisol, which has a powerful and versatile permissive effect on catecholamines, sharply weakens the glycogenolytic, lipolytic effects of adrenaline, the pressor effect and some other effects of catecholamines. In the absence of the required quantities of thyroid hormones, the action cannot be realized normally growth hormone in the early stages of organism development.
Endocrinopathies can occur as a result of disturbances in hormone metabolism. A significant part of hormones is destroyed in the liver, and with its lesions (hepatitis, cirrhosis, etc.), signs of endocrine disorders are often observed. Excessive activity of enzymes involved in hormone metabolism is also possible.

Moreover, these disorders are not always based on insufficient or excessive production of the corresponding hormones, but always on the inadequacy of their peripheral effects in target cells, leading to a complex interweaving of metabolic, structural and functional disorders. An endocrinologist will help you understand the causes of the disorder and also select the correct treatment.

This begs the question: Is it possible to do something to ensure the productive functioning of the endocrine glands and thus prolong youth? The answer to this question is yes, you can. Each of us is capable of improving the functioning of the endocrine system and this does not require large financial expenditures or physical effort.

All you need to do is eat right and move more, because the main consumer of calories in the body is muscle tissue. Do pleasant and healthy yoga, take long walks, forget about the elevator in your house and walk up the stairs.

The main factor that affects the functioning of the endocrine glands is nutrition. You should supplement your diet with healthy foods to have a positive effect on the endocrine glands.

Remember, if the endocrine system works like a clock, you will not have problems with overweight. We will share with you the secrets of proper nutrition that will help restore the functioning of the endocrine glands.

The endocrine glands include the pituitary gland, the thyroid and parathyroid glands, the adrenal glands and glands with mixed functions, which, along with internal and external secretion: gonads and pancreas. The main role of the endocrine glands in the body is expressed in their influence on the processes of metabolism, growth, physical and sexual development. Disruption of the endocrine system leads to various disorders of the body. Endocrine disorders are based on either an excessive increase or decrease in the functions of a particular gland.

The pituitary gland is considered the center of regulation of the endocrine system, since it produces hormones that specifically stimulate the growth, differentiation and functional activity of certain endocrine glands.

Disruption of the complex functions of the pituitary gland leads to the development of a number of pituitary disorders: excessive function of the anterior pituitary gland causes acromegaly. Decreased function of the anterior pituitary gland can cause:

obesity;

dwarf stature;

severe exhaustion;

atrophy of the gonads;

Decreased function of the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland provokes the development of diabetes insipidus. The patient has copious discharge urine and strong thirst.

Increased function of the thyroid gland is manifested in an increase in its volume. The following violations occur:

increased heart rate;

emaciation;

sweating;

neuropsychic excitability.

With a pronounced increase in thyroid function, protrusion of the eyeballs or bulging eyes is observed.

Decreased thyroid function is accompanied by a shrinkage of the thyroid gland, slow heart rate, and sunken eyeballs. There is a tendency towards obesity, constipation, dry skin, decreased general excitability, changes in the skin and subcutaneous tissue which become swollen. This condition is called myxedema.

The thyroid gland has a powerful effect on the entire body. When the thyroid gland is malfunctioning, a person feels fatigue and apathy. As a result, it disappears sexual attraction to the opposite sex.

Also, a functional deficiency of the thyroid gland can cause the appearance of symptoms of aging in a relatively short period of time.

To avoid such consequences, you should replenish iodine reserves in the body. Also for normal functioning The thyroid gland needs vitamins B, C and tyrosine - a special amino acid that is involved in the construction of proteins.

The main sources of iodine are seafood, as well as tomatoes, radishes and beets. Oats, asparagus, beans, potatoes and brewer's yeast will help replenish your reserves of B vitamins.

Sex glands.

In women it is the ovaries, and in men it is the testicles. Absence essential vitamins negatively affects the functioning of the gonads. Bad news for fasting lovers: strict diets and food restrictions often lead to a decline in libido.

For the productive functioning of the gonads, vitamins A, C, E, as well as B vitamins are necessary. Best sources vitamin A are: fish oil, potatoes, liver, cabbage, tomatoes.

Black currants, lemons, oranges and cabbage will help replenish vitamin C reserves. Vitamin E can be obtained by eating wheat germ, lettuce and egg yolk.

Regulation of endocrine glands.

Regulation of the activity of the endocrine glands is carried out by the autonomic nerve centers of the diencephalon through autonomic nerve fibers and through the pituitary gland under the control of the cortex cerebral hemispheres. The nervous and endocrine systems are closely interconnected and constantly interact.

The endocrine glands provide big influence pas growth and development of the body, metabolic processes, excitability and tone of the nervous system. Features of the functioning of individual parts of the endocrine system play a large role in the formation of the body in general and its constitutional characteristics in particular.

Natural course age-related changes in the body can be sharply disrupted under the influence of disorders of internal secretion from one or more endocrine glands.

Adrenal glands.

They are also often called the glands of confrontation, or survival, since the secretion they secrete provides the body with an influx of vitality and energy.

Hormones of the adrenal cortex promote active metabolism and have a positive effect on sexual function and muscle performance. For productive functioning, these glands require foods high in vitamins A, C and E.

Increased adrenal function is accompanied by premature puberty (most often due to the formation of tumors). A decrease in the function of the adrenal cortex in severe cases gives a picture of Addison's disease (bronze disease), in which characteristic dark, bronze pigmentation of the skin appears, exhaustion, and decreased blood pressure, blood sugar decreases, and the body's resistance decreases.

Increased function of the adrenal medulla causes the development arterial hypertension in the form of attacks. An increase in the function of the gonads is rarely observed (usually due to the development of malignant tumors of these glands), mostly in childhood. The gonads reach their full development prematurely. A decrease in the function of these glands leads to eunuchoidism, increased growth with disproportionate elongation of the lower and upper limbs, a tendency towards obesity, with the distribution of fat in men according to the female type and underdevelopment of the genital organs, and the absence of secondary hair.

Parathyroid glands.

Impaired functioning of the parathyroid glands is accompanied by symptoms such as uncontrollable irritation and increased excitability. To avoid problems with the nervous system, you should replenish your vitamin D reserves.

Yolk and fish oil are the best supplements to the daily diet for those who suffer from dysfunction of the parathyroid glands.

Pancreas.

Performs exocrine and intrasecretory functions. It is the pancreas that is the main source of enzymes for the successful digestion of proteins, fats and carbohydrates. Thanks to the release of insulin and glucagon into the bloodstream, the pancreas is able to regulate carbohydrate metabolism.

Increased pancreatic function has not been well studied. Some manifestations include a persistent decrease in blood sugar and a tendency toward obesity. A decrease in the function of this gland leads to an increase in sugar levels in the blood and urine, increased urination, and a decline in nutrition (diabetes mellitus).

Disturbances in the functioning of the pancreas can lead to the appearance of a disease such as diabetes. An excellent prevention of pancreatic diseases will be products with high content B vitamins, cystine and glutamic acid.

Our body consists of many different organs and systems that are closely interconnected. A slight disturbance in the activity of one of the body parts causes a peculiar chain reaction, triggering other problems in its functioning. One of the main systems is the endocrine system of the human body, let's talk about its features in a little more detail, and also remind you what a possible disease of the endocrine system is, consider the symptoms of such pathological conditions, their possible causes, as well as treatment.

Human endocrine system

All endocrine glands that are located in our body represent the human endocrine system. It is designed to control the basic functions occurring in the body. Its activity is carried out thanks to hormones produced by the glands. These particles are characterized high degree biological activity, they penetrate into all tissues and organs of our body, enter directly into cells through the intercellular space, or are transported along with the blood.

In addition to controlling the activities of organs and systems, the endocrine system takes an active part in various chemical reactions that occur in the body. She is responsible for stable flow vital processes and their coordination with conditions external environment. The endocrine system also works with the immune system and nervous system to help regulate growth and development human body. She also takes an active part in regulating the activity of the reproductive organs and sexual differentiation. Among other things, the endocrine system is one of the energy generators in our body; it is also necessary for the adequate formation of emotional reactions and the correction of mental behavior. Thus, disturbances in its activity can lead to very serious negative consequences for the entire organism. Accordingly, problems in the functioning of the endocrine system require timely diagnosis and adequate therapy.

Endocrine system diseases

There are many diseases of the endocrine system that can affect a variety of parts of the system and affect the body’s functioning in different ways. Perhaps the most known diseases This type should be recognized as diabetes mellitus and problems with the thyroid gland. But besides such diseases, there are many other problems represented by diseases of the hypothalamic-pituitary system, adrenal glands and gonads.

Why can a disease of the endocrine system occur, what are the reasons for this?

Any of the diseases of the endocrine system may be based on the following main causes. This may be a deficiency in the production of one or another hormone or excessive synthesis of a hormone. In addition, some diseases appear when the gland produces some abnormal hormone. In certain cases, pathological processes develop due to impaired hormone delivery, metabolic problems or the rhythm of hormone production. Also, such diseases can arise due to a simultaneous disruption of several hormonal systems.

As for the reasons for the development specific diseases, then they can be very different, and are not always definable.

Symptoms of endocrine system diseases

If we talk about the complaints of patients with similar diseases, they can also be very different. Among the most common symptoms are unexpected weight loss or, conversely, weight gain. excess weight. In addition, many patients of endocrinologists complain of the occurrence rapid heartbeat and interruptions in heart activity. They may experience fever, a feeling of heat, a feeling of excessive sweating and excessive excitability. Sometimes endocrine ailments make themselves felt by diarrhea (for example, with a diffuse form of toxic goiter), headaches (with the development of hypercortisolism or pheochromocytoma), severe weakness and muscle adynamia (in patients with chronic adrenal insufficiency). This pathological condition, how hypothyroidism makes itself felt by decreased attention, drowsiness and noticeable memory impairment. Diabetes mellitus is manifested by excessive thirst, against the background of which urination can significantly increase.

Thus, the manifestations of endocrine diseases can be very different and affect the activity of all organs and systems in our body.

How to correct a disease of the endocrine system, what treatment to apply?

Treatment of diseases of the endocrine system is carried out exclusively under the supervision of a doctor. Some of these diseases cannot be completely cured; medications only help control them by reducing or eliminating symptoms.

In general, treatment of such diseases can be conservative or surgical. For example, if there is insufficient production of certain hormones, the patient is usually prescribed hormonal medications, which often need to be taken for life. When the body produces excessive hormones, compounds are prescribed that suppress such active synthesis.

Tumor formations require surgical treatment. Many endocrinological diseases also require diet, some lifestyle changes, etc.

In most cases, endocrinological diseases can be successfully diagnosed and treated, but therapy can be lifelong.

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P.S. The text uses some forms characteristic of oral speech.

In the body, the function of the endocrine system is the synthesis of hormones. Due to them, the functioning of internal organs is regulated. Hormones affect the physiological and psycho-emotional state, as well as the physical parameters of a person. With endocrine diseases, the production of these substances is disrupted, which leads to failures in many organ systems.

Causes of diseases of the endocrine system

All pathologies of this system are associated with hormones. That's what they call biologically active substances, which circulate in body fluids and specifically affect certain target cells. The latter are cells that interact with hormones using special receptors and respond to this by changing their function. In some diseases, the process of production, absorption or transportation of hormonal substances is disrupted. There are also diseases that cause the synthesis of abnormal hormones.

Some endocrine diseases are characterized by the development of resistance to hormonal action. Most pathologies arise due to a deficiency or excess of synthesized hormones. In the first case, hypofunction is observed - insufficient function of the endocrine glands. Possible reasons lack of hormones in this case:

insufficient blood supply or hemorrhage to organs that produce hormones;
autoimmune diseases;
congenital diseases causing hypoplasia of the endocrine glands;
exposure to radiation, toxic substances;
tumors of the endocrine glands;
inflammatory processes in the body;
infectious diseases, including tuberculosis;
Iatrogenic (related to the influence of the doctor).

A violation is considered not only a deficiency of certain hormones, but also their production in excess. In this case, hyperfunction of the endocrine glands is diagnosed. Such a deviation in the body has its reasons:

synthesis of hormones by tissues that healthy person do not perform such a function;
iatrogenic;
excessive stimulation of the endocrine glands due to natural factors or diseases, including congenital ones;
synthesis of hormones from their precursors present in human blood (for example, fatty tissue is capable of producing estrogen).

The peculiarity of endocrine diseases is that they can occur unexpectedly. Although in some patients such pathologies are a natural development, since some people have risk factors for their development:

Symptoms

Diseases of the endocrine system manifest themselves in different ways, but also have several common symptoms. By them, such pathologies can be distinguished from other diseases. Although the symptoms are often mixed, which is why the patient himself, who does not have medical knowledge, confuses endocrine disorders with other diseases or blames everything on fatigue and stress. The disease progresses during this time. To prevent this, it is important to notice warning signs in time:

frequent urination;
fatigue;
muscle weakness;
sudden weight gain or loss with an unchanged diet;
constant feeling of thirst;
drowsiness;
memory impairment;
sweating;
fever;
diarrhea;
increased heartbeat, heart pain;
unnatural excitability;
convulsions;
high blood pressure accompanied by headaches.

Types of diseases

The composition of the endocrine system includes specific endocrine glands and cells. From their side, diseases can arise that lead to hormonal disorders. The organs of the endocrine system include:

parathyroid glands;
pituitary;
thyroid;
adrenal glands;
APUD system (diffuse), including hormonal cells located in different organs;
pineal gland (pineal gland);
interstitial cells of the kidneys and some other organs.

All endocrine disorders have several initial links, which later become the cause of one or another pathology. They are divided into three main groups:

Centrogenic. Associated with a violation neurohumoral regulation endocrine glands at the level of the hypothalamic-pituitary system and the brain. Pathologies are associated with the growth of tumors, psychoses, hemorrhages, and the effects of toxins or infectious agents on brain tissue.
Primary glandular. This includes disorders of the biosynthesis or secretion of hormones peripheral glands. The causes are atrophy or tumors of glandular tissues.
Postglandular. Caused by a violation of hormone reception - the process of their interaction with a specific receptor of target cells. As a result, biochemical reactions fail.

Hypothalamic-pituitary system

The pituitary gland is an endocrine organ that is responsible for the connection between the nervous and endocrine systems. The function of the hypothalamus is to regulate the neuroendocrine activity of the brain. The combination of these two organs is called the hypothalamic-pituitary system. Associated diseases:

Adrenal glands

At the upper poles of the kidneys there are paired glands called adrenal glands. They consist of medulla and cortical (bark) substances. The adrenal glands produce the hormones glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoids and sex steroids. The former influence carbohydrate metabolism, have an anti-inflammatory effect, the second regulate the exchange of potassium and sodium ions, and the third are responsible for the development of secondary sexual characteristics. Diseases of the adrenal glands are associated with hyper- or hypofunction of their cortex. The main pathologies of these organs are as follows:

Hyperaldosteronism. Develops with hyperfunction of the adrenal cortex. It is an aldosteroma - a tumor of the cortex of these paired organs. Characteristic signs: hypernatremia, sodium retention in plasma, high blood pressure, arrhythmias.
Total adrenal insufficiency. It can be acute or chronic. It is a deficiency of all hormones produced by the adrenal glands, although the level of catecholamines synthesized by them remains normal.
Partial adrenal insufficiency. With this disease, there is a deficiency of one class of adrenal hormones, more often glucocorticoids or mineralocorticoids.
Addison's disease. This is a chronic total insufficiency of the adrenal glands, resulting from the destruction of the tissues of their cortex. Causes of the disease: tuberculosis, tumor metastases, immune autoaggression, amyloidosis. The pathology is accompanied by polyuria, arterial hypotension, fatigue, muscle weakness, hypoglycemia, skin hyperpigmentation.

Thyroid gland

One of the elements of the hypothalamic-pituitary system is the thyroid gland. It acts as a storage site for iodine and is responsible for the production of iodine-containing substances (thyroxine and triiodothyronine) and peptide hormones. The thyroid gland stimulates the physiological and psychological development of a person. This body also controls correct height bones and skeleton, participates in fat metabolism. Common list pathologies of the thyroid gland:

Struma, or goiter. It is a diffuse or nodular proliferation of thyroid tissue. Goiter can be endemic (associated with a lack of iodine in food and water in some regions) and sporadic (occurs in residents of non-endemic areas). It develops as a result of hyperthyroidism - an excess of thyroid hormones.
Thyroiditis. This is a group of diseases in which inflammation of the thyroid tissue occurs. It can occur in three forms: acute, subacute (lymphocytic, granulomatous) and chronic (fibrotic, lymphocytic). Clinical picture There are different types of thyroiditis. The disease is characterized by symptoms of hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, signs of compression of the thyroid gland and general manifestations of inflammation.
Thyroid adenoma. This benign education with a fibrous capsule and clear edges. The danger of such a tumor is that it can lead to gland cancer. Adenoma can occur due to the effect of toxic substances on the body, unfavorable ecology, vegetative-vascular dystonia. Main symptoms: excessive irritability, increased sweating, weight loss, intolerance high temperatures, fatigue even after minor exertion.

Other

This category of pathologies includes endocrine diseases in women and diseases associated with the pancreas in all adults. Deviations in this case are also associated with a disruption in the production of hormones, which leads to changes in the functioning of certain body systems. List of these diseases:

Exhausted ovarian syndrome. This is a condition of a woman’s body in which menopause occurs much earlier than as a result of the natural aging processes. Menopause in this case occurs in patients under 40 years of age. The disease is rare - only 3% of women.
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS). It develops as a result of hormonal changes in women a few days or a couple of weeks before the onset of menstruation. PMS causes depression, aggression, tearfulness and irritability, flatulence, bloating, swelling, pressure changes, nausea, vomiting and dizziness.
Diabetes. There are two types: insulin-dependent (type 1) or insulin-independent (type 2). In the first case, the patient’s body cannot synthesize insulin, so the person receives it artificially through injections. In type 2 diabetes mellitus, tissue resistance to this hormone is observed against the background of its normal production.
Resistant ovarian syndrome. It is the insensitivity of these paired organs to gonadotropic stimulation, which leads to the development of secondary amenorrhea (lack of menstruation) in women after 35 years of age.
Polycystic ovary syndrome. The function of these organs is impaired due to the formation of numerous cysts. The disease is accompanied by dysfunction of the pituitary gland, adrenal glands and pancreas.

Diagnosis of endocrine system diseases

A person himself can suspect such pathologies based on certain symptoms, but only a qualified specialist can confirm the diagnosis. At the first appointment, the doctor conducts an external examination, taking into account the proportionality of the body, the condition of the skin, the size of the thyroid gland and the nature of body hair. Based on these signs, a specialist can determine primary diagnosis.

When visible symptoms There are no diseases of the endocrine system, then the doctor performs palpation. If you palpate the thyroid gland, you can identify a goiter of one size or another. Additionally, auscultation and percussion methods can be used. Among laboratory and instrumental procedures, the patient is prescribed:

ultrasonography(ultrasound) of the ovaries, adrenal glands, thyroid gland;
magnetic resonance and computed tomography (MRI and CT) of the endocrine glands;
X-ray examination to identify possible changes in bone tissue;
blood test for sugar and hormones;
radioimmunoassay using iodine 131 to detect thyroid pathologies.

Consequences of diseases of the endocrine system

In the body, hormones are responsible for the regulation of almost all major organs, so if the production of these substances is disrupted, the consequences can manifest themselves in any system. The body's metabolism is disrupted, cosmetic defects and somatic abnormalities occur. Possible negative consequences endocrine diseases:

increase in the amount of cholesterol in the blood;
osteoporosis;
gigantism or, conversely, too short stature, slow development of the genital organs - due to hormonal imbalance in childhood or adolescence;
the need for lifelong or long-term hormone replacement therapy;
the occurrence of concomitant diseases that only aggravate existing disorders.

Prevention

Almost any endocrine system disorder, excluding hereditary diseases, can be prevented. TO preventive measures in this case include:

eliminating the negative effects of radiation and toxic substances on the body;
a balanced diet with enough useful substances and vitamins;
losing weight up to normal weight, since obesity provokes hormonal disorders;
promptly consult a doctor when the first signs appear endocrine pathologies, which will help identify them at an early stage.